Police chief hits out at parents after fatal beating

THE Chief Constable of Cheshire Police yesterday hit out at parents who “abdicate” responsibility for their children.

Peter Fahy spoke out following the murder of Warrington father of three Garry Newlove.

Three boys appeared in court yesterday charged with his murder. They were remanded in custody until August 20.

Mr Newlove, 47, was attacked outside his home in Warrington, Cheshire, on Friday night after a confrontation with a gang of youths who were vandalising a vehicle. He died in hospital on Sunday.

The Chief Constable said Mr Newlove’s death had reopened debate about antisocial behaviour.

He said alcohol was fuelling a wave of violence and disorder across the country and, despite an increase in police officers, he admitted there was still a “long way to go”.

Mr Fahy said alcohol was too cheap, too strong and too readily available.

He continued: “Parents should be the key to tackling this problem.

“They are responsible for their children — and that responsibility is not abdicated when they become teenagers.

“Parents need to provide an understanding of what is right and wrong, a sense of social responsibility, and guidance through these key years. This is sometimes forgotten by a small number of parents. Most of the bad behaviour is fuelled by alcohol.”